Travellers exploring New Zealand now have a wider choice of thoughtfully designed places to stay, as BWH Hotels accelerates its expansion across the country through an ongoing partnership with Wellington-based U Hotel Group.
Spanning some of New Zealand’s most appealing destinations—from Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes and Wellington’s vibrant urban core to the relaxed seaside setting of Paraparaumu Beach and the rural charm of Masterton—the growing collection introduces distinctive hotels rooted in local character, supported by the reliability and standards of the Best Western brands.
The rollout marks an important chapter in BWH Hotels’ New Zealand growth. In October 2025, Urban Lounge Sleepery Rotorua, SureStay Collection by Best Western, and U Residence Wellington, BW Signature Collection opened their doors, followed in December by U Boutique Hotel Wellington, SureStay Collection by Best Western, reinforcing the group’s footprint in the capital.
The pace continued into 2026 with the January openings of U Studios Paraparaumu Beach and U Studios Masterton, both part of the SureStay Collection by Best Western, extending the portfolio into sought-after coastal and countryside locations.
“This series of openings reflects our commitment to delivering memorable stays in places travellers genuinely want to experience,” said Rod Munro, Managing Director of BWH Hotels Australasia. “New Zealand is a priority market for us, and our collaboration with U Hotel Group allows us to blend strong local identity with the comfort, quality, and consistency guests associate with the Best Western brands.”
In Rotorua, Urban Lounge Sleepery offers a contemporary, relaxed base in the heart of the city, ideal for guests eager to explore nearby parks, cafés, cultural highlights, and natural attractions. Designed with comfort and ease in mind, the property suits both quick getaways and extended stays.
Wellington’s U Residence Wellington, BW Signature Collection provides a boutique, apartment-style experience within the city’s cultural and entertainment district, close to the waterfront, dining, museums, and theatres. Just nearby, U Boutique Hotel Wellington brings a touch of European influence, pairing stylish design with an inviting, approachable atmosphere.
Suresh Subramaniam, CEO and Owner of U Hotel Group, said the brand’s guest-focused philosophy underpins every property. “Everything begins and ends with the guest—it’s all about U,” he said. “Our hotels are shaped by their surroundings and communities, paired with warm, personalised service that makes visitors feel truly at home. Partnering with BWH Hotels allows us to share that approach with a global audience while staying authentic to our values.”
With these latest openings now welcoming guests, BWH Hotels and U Hotel Group continue to strengthen the Best Western presence throughout New Zealand, offering travellers an expanding selection of distinctive, well-positioned hotels that make discovering the country even more compelling.
